Who does Coates think will win this weekend's Premiership games?
- Published
Ballymena v Portadown (Friday, 19:45 GMT)
Both teams have shown reasonable form recently, with Portadown taking confidence from the result last weekend. We've come off of eight wins in a row and then a string of narrow loses, so we'll be hoping to get back on the wagon.
Prediction: N/A (we'll let him off this one!)
Cliftonville v Crusaders (Friday, 19:45 GMT, live on BBC iPlayer and BBC Sport website)
The north Belfast derby is probably the second biggest fixture in the league. It throws up a good game with plenty of goals. Both sides have had solid starts, with Cliftonville coming off a big win. I think Declan Caddell is still finding a starting team that suits them, but they remain dangerous, especially in games like this one.
Prediction: 2-2
Coleraine v Dungannon Swifts (Saturday, 15:00 GMT, coverage on Sportsound)
Coleraine’s home advantage could give them the edge in a tight game. Rodney McAree's men have impressed with their young, talented squad, and have become a surprise package this season. Despite Dungannon's form, Coleraine have a nice brand of football and might just edge this one.
Prediction: 2-1
Glentoran V Larne (Saturday, 15:00 GMT, coverage on Sportsound)
Tough game to call. Larne’s form has been up and down and with pressure on the squad due to European defeats and squad rotation, they haven't been able to find their rhythm. On their day though, they can beat anyone. Declan Devine will be pushing to secure points on Saturday at home, hoping to build some momentum.
Prediction: 1-1
Loughgall v Glenavon (Saturday, 15:00 GMT, coverage on Sportsound)
A massive game for both teams at the other end of the table. Loughgall have a confidence boost from last week's win, and Glenavon have had good results against some top sides. Sometimes they need to turn draws into wins and they'll be looking to do that this weekend.
Prediction: 1-1
Carrick Rangers V Linfield (Sunday, 12:30 GMT)
Carrick Rangers have seen a turn in form since Stephen Baxter came in, and their results reflect that. Linfield however, with their depth and experience, are known to bounce back strongly after a defeat. I expect Linfield to go out and win in a competitive game.
Prediction: 1-2
Don't forget to join Ballymena United player Colin Coates with Michael McNamee on this weekend's Sportsound programme on BBC Sounds, BBC Radio Ulster and the BBC Sport website from 14:00 GMT on Saturday.